UN Secretary-General calls for de-escalation in the region and resumption of negotiations

New York, July 12 /QNA/ - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that a return to large-scale hostilities would have catastrophic repercussions for the peoples of the Middle East region, for international peace and security, and for the global economy. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, he expressed grave concern over the serious escalation and renewed military confrontations in the Gulf region, including attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Guterres stressed the need to immediately stop all attacks, calling on all parties to exercise utmost restraint and avoid any steps that could increase tension. He also called for urgent measures to de-escalate and prevent the situation from sliding into further military confrontations. He reiterated the importance of fully restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, given its vital role in global trade and energy flows. Guterres urged Iran and the United States to urgently resume negotiations and address outstanding issues through diplomatic channels.